Is the use of the catapult (manjaniq) against the enemy permissible?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Jihad

Book 54 · Issue 16 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

The use of the catapult against the enemy is permissible. This is supported by the action of the Prophet, peace be upon him, who used it against the people of Ta'if. This view is held by Al-Thawri, Al-Awza'i, Al-Shafi'i, and the Companions of Opinion. It is considered an established practice in warfare, akin to shooting arrows.